'The Little Mermaid' swims to Watt Auditorium this weekend

Community members are encouraged to take a journey under the sea with Ionia High School students this weekend as they perform "The Little Mermaid."

Though many people know of the Disney version of the story, play director Trish Carter said the story is a similar, yet different, adaptation.

"It's fun for my actors to do and it's a step forward," said Carter, adding there are more costumes, scenery and makeup to bring life to the stage.

She said the play, though lesser-known, is still fun and humorous and will appeal to all ages. Twenty-three students are helping the production come together at Watt Auditorium and are taking part in more than just acting. Carter said they have been responsible for publicity, creating props and scenery and learning more of the technical side of theater.

Carter added it is good for the students to be more fully involved because it is beneficial for them to understand what it really takes to make a production come together.

"It helps them take more ownership of the project," she said, adding the students have not only grown individually, but as a group that collaborates with each other to get the job done.

Students Sierra Hewley and Monica Willingham, both 16, said they are excited to perform this weekend. They added they are enjoying the alternate story line than they grew up on.

"I like that it's the original story. It's deeper," said Hewley, who is a chorus member and is participating in her second play.

"The Little Mermaid" is Willingham's first play, and she is playing the character of Georgina."I've always been a drama person," said Willingham about why she decided to audition.

Though she said she is both excited and nervous for her first time on stage, she believes she will participate in other shows in the future.

The Little Mermaid" will be performed at 7 p.m. Friday, at 2 and 7 p.m. Saturday and at 2 p.m. Sunday. Tickets are $5 for students and seniors, and $8 for adults. On Sunday, student tickets are $2 with the purchase of an adult ticket.